Amanda Serrano Makes a Statement

image credit:  @serranosisters

Amanda Serrano fought on October 27th and I had no doubt that she would win the  defense of her unified titles. She is truly in her prime and her opponent Danila Ramos did not have the experience or skill to beat her.  But, nonetheless, Serrano and Ramos put on a fantastic show that was billed as the first woman's unified title fight over 12 three minute rounds.  If you don't know, that is the same as men's championships fights. Women have typically fought 2 minute rounds and championship fights are usually 10 rounds.  There have been other 3 minute 12 round women's fights, but none as high profile as this fight.  Serrano is fighting not only to cement her own legacy, she is fighting to leave more opportunities for those following in her footsteps.  She is fighting for equality for women in terms of pay and opportunity and has the skill and respect in the sport to do so.  You wouldn't have known that she had never gone 12 rounds or fought 3 minute rounds.  Her output over the twelve rounds was what it normally is--nonstop.  It was a festive night in Orlando, Florida and I was happy to see that 3 of women's boxing royalty were in the house.  Laila Ali was there ringside enjoying the show.  Holly Holmes was commentating for the fight, and Christy Martin was there as a manager of a fighter on the undercard.  Sparkle Lee, one of the best referees in professional boxing was the third woman in the ring.  Serrano did not defend her WBC belt because they still will not sanction 3 minute rounds for women citing that it is too dangerous.

Amanda Serrano walk to the ring and PR surrounding the fight was all about women getting there due and about those coming behind her.  A group of 6-7 amateur fighters came out with Serrano's belts and escorted her to the ring.  Ramos and Serrano did a number of commercials about the historic night that were inspiring.  Serrano has begun to manage and promote fighters.  Her fighter Krystal Rosario fought on the undercard of the show, another testament to how Serrano is making a path for those following her. Serrano was fierce throughout the bout in her pink outfit (for breast cancer awareness) and Jordans.  She was really hoping for the knockout in the final round and came on even stronger, but was unsuccessful.  Ramos was not a lay down opponent.  She came to win and never stopped fighting.  After the fight, Serrano gave a gracious speech and let everyone know there was more to come.  She is truly on top of the boxing world right now and hard fought well deserved victory for her and women's boxing.  I can't wait to see what she does next year.

image credit:  @serranosisters